Colorful Curacao

The largest and most populous of the Netherlands Antilles, Curacao is poised strategically at the base of the Caribbean. Curacao has been a significant crossroad for global commerce, linking the island with many important figures and events in world affairs. The inhabitants of Curacao claim their descent from over fifty distinct ethnic backgrounds. Rich and diverse history, with an affluent culture creates a curious mixture of modern and ancient charm.

Curacao is a colorful, historic island and a paradise for active vacationers, scuba divers, bikers, and hikers. Excellent weather with plenty of sunshine makes Curacao a popular tourist destination. It is renowned for its national Underwater Park, a 12.5-mile stretch of protected coral reef with many attractions for diving enthusiasts. The small, uninhabited island of Klein Curacao off the eastern coast is worth exploring. Its offshore waters are excellent for deep-sea fishing, with several different species of fish such as the marlin, sailfish, tuna, and wahoo. Other favorites amongst professional divers are boat dives to Tugboat, the wall at Piedre Pretu and the Oswaldo's Place and Watamula.

The wildlife preserve at Christoffel Park has a broad and unique biodiversity with areas rich in flora and fauna. It is home to numerous animals and birds that thrive in their natural habitat. Curacao is home about 51 breeding species of birds and a further 115 migrant birds that fly to the island from North and South America. The numerous, well-preserved shipwrecks are other popular attractions that are most frequented by the tourists. The island's twelve forts and the historic area of Willemstad have been enlisted as World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO.

Curacao is a preferred shopping destination. Negotiable price points and duty-free shopping makes for some of the best deals in the Caribbean on imported electronic equipment, crystal, china, jewelry, perfumes and linens. The capital city of Willemstad boasts an active social life with several music festivals throughout the year, dancing at popular nightclubs and discotheques and gambling at casinos.